Peter Crouch hit a sensational 46th-minute overhead kick to earn England victory in Macedonia.
The Liverpool hitman and his strike partner Jermain Defoe were given a tough time by Macedonia's defence. Mark Irwin, The Sun
Peter Crouch offered a passable impersonation of Sir Geoff Hurst last night in an otherwise scratchy England performance.
Crouch's well-taken strike gave England a 1-0 win over FYR Macedonia that they barely deserved. His goal was desperately needed as England laboured. The home side did not play like minnows and England were indebted to goalline clearances from the outstanding John Terry and Ashley Cole to preserve their lead.
Jermain Defoe was anonymous last night. Michael Owen came through his second operation in Colorado after the anterior cruciate ligament damage he suffered at the World Cup. Matt Hughes, The Times
Theo Walcott scored a stunning goal after 12 minutes in Lucerne last night. Max Short, The Sun
James Milner epitomised England Under-21s' spirit as the winger scored the winning goal two minutes from time.
England flourished on the counter-attack but Switzerland, fielding six full international players, imposed their class to draw level with 20 minutes left.
But England showed class, spirit and organisation. Peter Lansley, The Times